Production Manager (Live Events)
ita groupEmeryville (CA)
About the role
Job Description:
POSITION PURPOSE:
The Production Manager collaborates closely with Producers, Technical Directors, Coordinators, and Creative teams to translate client objectives and approved creative concepts into executable production plans. This role is responsible for managing production logistics, vendor partnerships, budgets, schedules, and on-site execution while ensuring all elements are delivered safely, on time, and within budget.
The Production Manager serves as a key operational leader throughout pre-production, load-in, live event execution, and dismantle, maintaining alignment across internal teams, vendors, and clients.
This position requires regular work on location throughout the South San Francisco Bay Area, with travel as needed.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
Production & Operations Manage all scenic, exhibit, and environmental production elements, including graphics, signage, and physical structures
Oversee on-site labor requirements for installation, show operation, and dismantle, ensuring adherence to safety and quality standards
Coordinate freight logistics, including shipping schedules, load-in/load-out plans, and on-site material handling
Develop and manage detailed production schedules in collaboration with the Technical Director
Partner with Technical Directors to coordinate power, lighting, audiovisual, IT, rigging, and heavy equipment requirements
Budget & Vendor Management Collaborate with Producers to manage assigned budget line items, track expenses, and forecast costs
Source, negotiate, and manage vendors, ensuring contractual obligations, timelines, and deliverables are met
Maintain accurate production documentation, including vendor quotes, purchase orders, labor calls, and production reports
Client & Stakeholder Collaboration Interface directly with clients, vendors, venues, and internal stakeholders to scope deliverables and manage expectations
Proactively identify production risks and implement mitigation strategies
Support on-site client engagement to ensure a seamless and professional event experience
Compliance & Safety Ensure compliance with local regulations, venue requirements, and union labor rules
Coordinate security and medical resources as required by event scope
Promote and enforce best practices related to safety, labor standards, and operational efficiencyREQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:
5+ years of experience managing production for large-scale live events, trade shows, or experiential installations
Proven experience overseeing event load-in and dismantle operations
Working knowledge of scenic construction, electrical systems, lighting, AV, IT, and rigging
Experience managing union and non-union labor crews
Strong understanding of event safety standards and operational best practices
Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously under aggressive timelinesPREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
Experience working with retail, technology, or corporate brand clients
CAD experience (creation, markup, or management of design files provided by others)
Familiarity with production management software, budgeting tools, and scheduling platforms
Advanced cross-functional collaboration with creative, technical, and production teams
Strong vendor negotiation and relationship management capabilities
Risk assessment and contingency planning for live environments
Clear client-facing communication and expectation management
High level of attention to detail in documentation, schedules, and budgets
Ability to lead under pressure during live show conditions
Proactive problem-solving and decision-making on-site
Understanding of scalable production workflows for multi-city or repeat events Why Join Us?
At Hartmann Studios, you’ll be part of a passionate team that creates unforgettable experiences. This is your chance to work on a high-profile event, flex your creative and logistical muscles, and collaborate with some of the best in the business.
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